Motherwort is called as such because of the benefits it offers moms — it is traditionally used for warding off uterine infections after birth, increasing breast milk production, and reducing anxiety and depression commonly faced by new mothers. Motherwort is also commonly employed for treating palpitations, asthma, bronchitis and others.
Native to the central part of Asia and southeastern part of Europe but is also now widely cultivated in the US, motherwort can be found just about anywhere, from roadsides to empty lots. It’s a prickly bush that grows up to 5 feet in height. It bears tiny pink to purple flowers with lots of hair, and the leaves are oak-shaped.
Since the ancient times, motherwort has been used for dealing with an assortment of ailments. Traditional healers are not the only ones that make use of motherwort, but also midwives or people who assist women in giving birth. By the way, motherwort has so many other names, including lion’s tail, lion’s ear, throw-wort and heartwort.
Various aerial parts of motherwort are the ones commonly employed. For instance, the leaves and flowers are dried and then turned into tea or decoction which, by the way, has a bitter and a little spicy taste to it. Sometimes the seeds are also used, most especially for the management of issues concerning the eyes.
Motherwort is more popular consumed in the form of tea. If you have the herb growing around your house, you may have the flowers and leaves dried — in a cup of boiling water, you may steep 2 teaspoons for 10 minutes. Adding a little lemon juice or honey is perfectly fine. Up to 2 cups of motherwort tea may be consumed twice a day.
And what are the benefits of drinking motherwort tea? Here are some of them:
It Increases Breast Milk Production
Motherwort tea is a well-known galactagogue, which means that it is capable of promoting increase in breast milk. It’s an excellent herbal beverage for women whose breasts refuse to produce good amounts of breast milk, which keeps their respective babies hungry and improperly nourished.
It Helps Reduce Postpartum Depression
Experts say that about 10 to 15 percent of women suffer from mood disorders after giving birth, and one of them is postpartum depression. Also known as “baby blues”, fortunately it’s a phenomenon that can be managed in a number of all-natural ways, including the regular intake of motherwort tea.
It Also Helps Control Anxiety
It’s very common for a new mom to feel anxious about stepping into the world of motherhood. However, controlling her anxiety is important so that she may be able to carry out her many tasks without problems. The intake of motherwort tea can help her relax, thus letting her do well with being a new mother.
It Reduces Uterine Cramping and Infection
As mentioned earlier, midwives commonly use motherwort for dealing with problems concerning the uterus, such as cramping and infections — both of which are common after childbirth. However, the intake of motherwort tea should be avoided during pregnancy to keep complications at bay.
It Helps Normalize Menstruation
Women who experience heavy bleeding during their period may count on motherwort tea. Similarly, the said herbal drink may also be employed by those who are bugged by the absence of menstruation. By the way, motherwort tea is also known as an excellent fighter of those annoying PMS symptoms.
It Alleviates Symptoms of Menopause
It’s very common for women who have entered menopause — including those who are nearing it, which is called “perimenopause” — to experience various symptoms such as palpitations and insomnia. Consuming motherwort tea on a regular basis is said to be very helpful in controlling those problems.
Sources: wishgardenherbs.com
